Review | 5 Stories, Konkani and Kannada anthologies raise the bar for Indian translations
The translators bend English to the rhythms of Indian languages in these short story collections
Two recent anthologies, 5 Stories in Konkani and Kannada, have been edited by Mini Krishnan, a highly respected advocate for Indian stories in English translation. The translations were done by Vidya Pai and Susheela Punitha. These collections are notable for their ability to raise the bar for translated stories.
One story, "Cry, Now" by Damodar Mauzo, features an honest and well-respected couple praying for a child. Alas, the son is born and dies in an aeroplane crash en route to Kuwait. The chilling narrative will leave a lasting impression on the reader.
Stories such as "The Ceremonial Bull" by Jayanti Naik and "The Potter's Kiln" by Mahabaleshwar Sail delve into the hardships faced by individuals in traditional communities undergoing a transition. The poems explore themes of resistance, justice, and the struggle to adapt in the face of powerful influences.
"A Man of the Forest" offers a universal narrative, transcending specific regional identities. Vaidehi's "Worlds Within Worlds" features a character who leeches off the generosity of others while cultivating an air of importance. This mirrors the anguish experienced by Dorothea in George Eliot's Middlemarch.
The collection also includes a variety of perspectives on the Kargil War and the India-Pakistan cricket World Cup final. Amaresh Nugadoni's "This Heart Longs For More" is set in a tea stall, where rumors of a forbidden romance between a Hindu girl and a Muslim boy unfold amidst the backdrop of ordinary conversations.
Bolwar Kunhi and Banu Mushtaq's stories delve deeper into the Muslim experience, examining the role of the jamaat, interpretations of the Koran, and the influence of Sharia traditions. These narratives provide a non-judgmental portrayal of the complexities surrounding the Muslim community.
The translators have done an exemplary job of capturing the Indian rhythms within the English language. Regional words, expressions, and colloquialisms have been retained, providing a unique flavor to the translations. The selection of these stories from various regional publications like Jaag, Prajavaani, Patrike, and Kannada Prabha underscores the importance of regional literature.
Overall, this anthology is a refreshing collection of unpretentious stories that showcase the subterranean aspects of Indian society. The author, a Sahitya Akademi translation award winner and editor of 250 Years Of Jane Austen: Indian Responses, offers a valuable contribution to the world of literary translation.
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